Comprised of more than 300 volcanic and coral islands, the Fiji archipelago is at the crossroads of the South Pacific. In the days of sailing ships, it was known as The Cannibal Isles and carefully avoided by mariners because of its fierce warriors and treacherous waters. More recently, Fiji’s tropical climate and location on Pacific air routes have made it a prime spot for tourists.

Fiji’s population, which resides mostly on the two main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, is divided almost equally between indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, the descendants of indentured labourers brought from India. Mixing between the two groups is minimal, and informal segregation runs deep at almost every level of society.

Fijians are known as some of the friendliest people in the world. They are not judgmental of other people and rarely express a negative opinion. Customs still prevail in the more traditional villages, especially those distant from towns and urban centres. And of course, Fiji is where the Cloud Breaker, the incredible six-metre wave was found offshore at Tavarua, a place which still draws surfers from around the world.

A coup by indigenous Fijians in 1987, followed by a further coup in 2000, caused immense harm to the tourism industry and to Fiji’s international reputation. Then, in December 2006, military chief Frank Bainimarama announced he had taken over the country and installed himself as interim prime minister from the start of 2007. Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, whom he accused of mis-managing the country’s affairs, was sent back to his home island.

18,376 sq km (7,056 sq miles).

905,949 (CIA estimate 2006).

49 per sq km.

Suva. Population: 210,000 (metropolitan 2004).

Republic since 1987.

The principal languages are Fijian and Hindustani; English is widely spoken and is also taught in schools.

Methodist and Hindu with Roman Catholic and Muslim minorities. A strictly fundamentalist Methodist version of Christianity is enshrined in, and informs, the Fijian Constitution.

GMT + 12.

Fijians are a very welcoming people and visitors should not be afraid to accept hospitality. Informal casual wear is generally acceptable.

Tips for visiting villages: Before visiting, it is customary to purchase a bundle of unpounded yaqona (kava) – the traditional sevusevu (gift). When approaching the village, visitors should not enter immediately but wait until greeted. They will then be taken to the chief or Turaga Ni Koro (headman), to whom the kava should be offered. Visitors who are accepted by the chief will be assigned a guide and host. Once inside the village, please also note the following: visitors should dress modestly and not wear shorts or hats, and women should not have their shoulders bare; shoes should always be taken off when entering someone’s house or any other village building; visitors should speak softly and not raise their voices too much as this may be interpreted as expressing anger; visitors should show respect but be cautious about praise as Fijians will feel obliged to make a gift of an object if visitors show too much liking for it; Fijians will always, out of custom, ask visitors to stay or eat with them; visitors who spend a night in the village should reward their host with a useful gift of similar value for each member of the party; it is not recommended to give money.

240 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs used are Australian-style with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade.

Frank Bainimarama since 2007 (temporary leader). 

President Ratu Josefa Iloilo since 2000.